Evans Center for Food and Agricultural Communications established after $5 million milestone

The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has reached the university-required $5 million threshold to officially establish the James F. Evans Global Center for Food and Agricultural Communications. 

The milestone caps a campaign unveiled during National Ag Day on March 19, 2024. It was achieved today, Sept. 3 (9/3), on James F. Evans’ 93rd birthday — a fitting tribute to the Illinois professor emeritus whose pioneering work in agricultural communications has inspired generations of students and colleagues worldwide.

“This milestone reflects the extraordinary generosity of our alumni and friends who believe, as Jim Evans does, that communication is central to solving the challenges facing food and agriculture,” said Germán Bollero, dean of the College of ACES. “Now that the Evans Center is established, our next step is to secure operational support so the center can fulfill its vision and thrive for generations to come.”

The Evans Center will advance excellence through outreach, professional development, research, convenings, and academic programs that connect food, agriculture, and society. Once fully operational, the Evans Center will bring together students and faculty from across campus and around the world with other institutions, practitioners, and the public focused on food and agriculture communications, including:

• Advancing research to address communication challenges unique to food and agriculture.
• Training professionals and industry leaders with practical, high-impact communication skills.
• Engaging the public on critical food and agriculture issues through clear, effective outreach.
• Building connections among farmers, industry, policymakers, and consumers to shape the future of food.

Anna Ball, associate dean for academic programs and director of the Agricultural Leadership, Education & Communications program, where the Evans Center is housed, underscored the impact for Illinois students. “I’m excited to see students engaging directly with global experts and industry partners to address the most pressing communications challenges in food systems,” Ball said. “The Evans Center will provide authentic, hands-on experiences that prepare graduates to lead with skill, awareness, and purpose.”

While the $5 million milestone officially launches the Evans Center, continued investment will ensure it reaches its full potential. Operational support will expand opportunities for professional development events, visiting journalist programs, executive seminars, consumer outreach, and unbiased media research.

To learn more about supporting the Evans Center, contact Stacey Cole in the College of ACES Office of Advancement at 217-244-1676 or smcole@illinois.edu. Gifts can be made online at evans.aces.illinois.edu/give.